Sharmanism, myths, divination and storytelling have for tens of centuries been a cultural expression for tribal man.
From scapulamancy in China to the whale teeth carving of the South Pacific nations, many cultures carved the uniqueness of their history onto their animal bones.
Anthony Bray-Heta is an emerging New Zealand bone carver who was for several years apprenticed to well known New Zealand Master Carver Alan Nopera.
The majority of Anthony's sculptures are designed to be worn as talisman- to magnify strength, personal power and flow. Many designs encapsulate celtic weaves or strength of mythical dragons- the majesty of migrating whales, the potency of sharmatic divination.
Anthony has recently started carving in mammoth ivory and casting many designs in silver or bronze.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Anthony via email.
The following is a selection of works by Anthony Bray-Heta; For custom orders please contact Anthony via email stating which design you are interested in, or to buy now visit the Tribal Creations.
Most of these pieces can be carved in bone or made in hand finished sterling silver of solid bronze. Many are one of a kind art pieces while those in sterling silver and bronze are extremely limited numbered editions.
Manaia: The Manaia is an ancient mythical being. It is said to be the messenger between the earthly world of mortals and the domain of the spirit world. It is a holder of great spiritual energy and is a guardian against evil.
Celtic Knotwork/knotwork shields: Knotwork patterns form a maze creating a spiritual center of vital energies. The patterns are symbolic of life’s journey, an innovation of self discovery through the maze of existence.
Spirals: The spirals represent the fern frond as it opens bringing new life and purity to the world. It also represents peace, tranquility, strength and spirituality along with a strong sense of re-growth or new beginning.
Celtic Serpent Earth Healer:The meaning behind the serpent earth healer: A protector of health and well being, serpents are symbols of wisdom. The serpent is also a symbol of regeneration and re-birth, a renewal of vital energies and source of spiritual strength.
Tiki (Koruru): Tiki was respected as the teacher of all things and the wearer of this symbol is therefore seen to possess clarity of thought, loyalty, great inner knowledge and strength of character. The Tiki is regarded as a good luck charm when worn.
Circles: The closed circle is said to represent the circle of life which is, has no beginning or end. For an artist the circle represents the relationship or oneness between the artist and his or her craft, bringing together head, hand and heart.
Kowhai-whai/Koru Designs: The spirals represent the fern frond as it opens bringing new life and purity to the world. It also represents peace, tranquility, strength and spirituality along with a strong sense of re-growth or new beginning. The Koru is also often associated with nurturing so when interlocked with others is frequently used to represent the strength and purity of a loving relationship with family.
Dragons: Dragons as sacred protectors of temples. The body is a temple therefore it protects oneself when worn. A guardian on life’s journey of self discovery. Protector of ones vital energies. The dragon also represents strength and leadership.
>Tiki (Koruru): Tiki was respected as the teacher of all things and the wearer of this symbol is therefore seen to possess clarity of thought, loyalty, great inner knowledge and strength of character.
Koruru: Koruru was respected as the teacher of all things and the wearer of this symbol is therefore seen to possess clarity of thought, loyalty, great inner knowledge and strength of character. The Koruru is regarded as a good luck charm when worn.
Whales & Dolphins: These pendants represent a great respect for the creatures of the sea and in particular dolphins and whales. The whale is a symbol of great size and intelligence, while the dolphin is a symbol of playfulness, harmony and friendship.
Hei-Matau:
These very stylised fish hooks represent strength, prosperity,abundance, fertility and a great respect for the sea.It also is said to provide good luck and safety when traveling over water so is often worn by travelers. Hei-Matau are also symbols of power and authority which are held in great reverence by the Maori people.
They were used as a practical tool for fishing and were often decorated as a sign of respect for the creatures of the sea. There are many styles of Hei-Matau from the true hook designs to the more ornamental styles which became treasured heirlooms for generations following.
Kowhai-whai/Koru Designs: The spirals represent the fern frond as it opens bringing new life and purity to the world. It also represents peace, tranquility, strength and spirituality along with a strong sense of re-growth or new beginning. The Koru is also often associated with nurturing so when interlocked with others is frequently used to represent the strength and purity of a loving relationship with family.
Dragons: Dragons as sacred protectors of temples. The body is a temple therefore it protects oneself when worn. A guardian on life’s journey of self discovery. Protector of ones vital energies. The dragon also represents strength and leadership.
Twist:
The twist with its crisscross form represents the many paths of life and love and as such is regarded as the original eternity symbol. The single twist in particular shows the joining together of two people for eternity. Even though they sometimes move away from each other on their own journeys, they will always come together again sharing their lives and blending to become one. It tells how the strength of bond of friendship, loyalty and love will last forever.
The double and triple twists have a similar meaning but refer more to the joining of two peoples or cultures rather than individuals.
TOKI:
The toki (adze) was traditionally worn by Maori elders and was seen as a sign of power, wisdom and authority.
